New pond dipping platforms at Kent Wildlife Trust

Kent Wildlife Trust has received funds from Biffa Award to replace the pond dipping platforms and can now continue with much-loved pond dipping activities in 2022.

Big news!

We are delighted to announce that, following a successful application, we have received generous funding from Biffa Award to replace our pond dipping platforms at Tyland Barn!

The platforms have been enjoyed for many years by schools, groups and families but are now looking rather tired and in need of a revamp.

The new nature-inspired platforms have been fantastically designed to improve accessibility for everyone and complement the natural environment; we cannot wait for work to start at the beginning of 2022.

The pond is such an integral part of our site at Tyland Barn, providing an aquatic habitat for numerous species and supporting many others in the ecosystem. It also enables us to host educational events and activities, as well as many family fun sessions.

View from pond dipping platform 2 — Jaimie Morris

Thank you!

In addition to the generous funding from Biffa Award, we have also received invaluable support from The Cobtree Charity Trust and the Blakemore Foundation. We would like to thank The Cobtree Charity Trust for their letter of support and kind grant towards the project, as well as the Blakemore Foundation for their kind donation.

We also want to say a huge thank you to the local residents, schools, nurseries, community groups, volunteers and families that wrote letters in support of our funding application. We really could not have done it without you, and we hope you will visit next year and try out the new platform.

What happens next?

In the New Year, work will start at Tyland Barn to remove and recycle the old platforms. Our Wildlife Habitats Officer is working with the contractors to ensure there is minimal disruption to our wildlife, and our volunteers are working hard to prepare the site.

The new platform will be installed towards the end of winter, in time for it to be enjoyed in the Spring. We will keep you posted about its progress, so make sure you check out our social media channels for updates on the project.